Yank Sing has been in business since 1958 and, although it’s an institution, it doesn’t shy away from innovation. The result is a traditional dim sum that nods to modern culinary sensibilities, perfectly catering to diners’ expectations without getting stale. With excellent dim sum and an elevated atmosphere, Yank Sing is so popular that it maintains multiple locations and is a fixture for tourists and locals alike. This popularity often means that the restaurant can be busy, but that may be just what some diners are looking for. Optimizing visit times can help diners get the experience they want.

Weekends: For Those Who Love People Watching

The Rincon Center Yank Sing can ordinarily seat 230. However, on weekends, the restaurant takes over the indoor atrium in the building and accommodates an additional 500 diners. This means that the people-watching at Yank Sing is second to none on weekends. Sure, there are other terrific places in San Francisco to watch different people interact and go about their lives, but none of them also serve excellent dim sum. Diners should be prepared to wait for a table in spite of the massive volume of overflow seating. This affords more time to watch the crowd.

Weekdays: For Those Who Prefer a Quieter Scene

As an iconic restaurant in a major city, Yank Sing isn’t likely to ever be totally quiet. However, diners will enjoy a calmer atmosphere on weekdays, especially at the Stevenson location, which is just a few blocks southwest of the Rincon location. Visitors who find Rincon a bit too busy for their taste on weekdays can just stroll down Mission Street to the Stevenson Street Yank Sing outpost, which is still busy yet smaller and usually less hectic.

Sunny Days: For Those Who Want a Dim Sum Picnic

Dim sum isn’t exactly classic Chinese takeout food, but the small dumplings and other little bites served up at Yank Sing San Francisco are actually perfect to-go treats for a bayside picnic. When the sun is shining, visitors and locals alike can get to-go dim sum menu items from either of Yank Sing’s locations. Those who go to the Rincon location will be a bit closer to Rincon Park, which affords beautiful bay views and a nice place to rest in the sun while feasting on dim sum.

On an Empty Stomach: For Those Who’ve Never Had Dim Sum Before

Though San Francisco’s Chinatown is no longer as centralized as it once was, the influence of Chinese immigrant culture is still palpable throughout the city, and Chinese restaurants are a big part of the city’s history. Tourists should include Chinese in their schedule of San Francisco restaurants, and anyone who hasn’t had dim sum before should certainly stop by Yank Sing. Whether on a weekend or weekday, in foggy or sunny weather, diners should come to Yank Sing hungry and ready to try a bunch of different delicious foods. Dim sum is best enjoyed with at least two people, making this a perfect stop for groups.

While these times are all great for different reasons, anytime you’re hungry is a great time to visit Yank Sing. Stop by to dine in or call to place an order to eat in the park.